Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup Marula liqueur
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Special Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, Marula liqueur, and vanilla extract.
5. Add the flour mixture to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.
6. Fold in the chocolate chips.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
9. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
- Total time: 45-50 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 350°F (180°C)
Serving size:
- 8-10 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 360
- Fat: 17g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Protein: 5g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Marula liqueur can be substituted with any other fruit liqueur.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips can be substituted with dark chocolate chips or chopped chocolate.
Variations:
- Add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the batter.
- Top the cake with a chocolate ganache or whipped cream.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened before beating it with the sugar.
- Use room temperature eggs for best results.
- Do not overmix the batter, as this can make the cake tough.
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting or topping it.
Storage Instructions:
- Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- To reheat the cake, place it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-10 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
- Dust the cake with powdered sugar or cocoa powder.
- Top the cake with fresh berries or whipped cream.
- Serve the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Garnishes:
- Fresh berries
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings
Pairings:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Red wine
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Fresh fruit salad
- Vanilla ice cream
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cake is dry, it may have been overbaked. Try reducing the baking time next time.
- If the cake is too dense, it may have been overmixed. Be sure to mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils before preparing the cake.
- Use pasteurized eggs to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.
Food History:
- Marula liqueur is made from the fruit of the Marula tree, which is native to southern Africa.
Flavor Profiles:
- Rich chocolate flavor with a hint of fruitiness from the Marula liqueur.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the cake as a dessert after a dinner party or special occasion.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
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Region: South African
Taste: Rich, Decadent, Chocolatey, Sweet, Moist